What do Pinoys think about opening jobs to foreigners?

by Fidea Encarnacion, ABS-CBNnews.com

MANILA – Pinoy netizens took to social media to air their concerns on the proposal to open some occupations in the Philippines to foreigners.

On Wednesday, TV Patrol aired a report that the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) might offer jobs to foreigners due to lack of qualified Filipino applicants in certain occupations.

On TV Patrol's Facebook page, many expressed concern about the report, saying Pinoys must be prioritized for these jobs before opening them to foreigners. Some noted many Filipinos have difficulty finding jobs, citing the high unemployment rate in the country.

Noel Mindanao said, “Ang taas ng unemployment rate natin, bakit di nila bawasan sa paraang bigyan ng trabaho. One thing I've learned being an OFW for a very long time is that we, Filipinos, no matter what the background (experienced or not) can easily be TRAINED at any fields or profession. Proper training lang at makikita mo na ang huhusay nating mga Pinoy.”

The DOLE defended the proposal, saying it is their interest to provide work for unemployed locals and to meet the needs of industries that require more expertise for vacant positions.

DOLE Labor Communications Office director Atty. Nikon Femeronag said that they are raising this concern to different institutions, hoping that training and other opportunities be provided to Filipino workers.

“The purpose is to serve as a signal to industries, employers, to educational and training institutions, for them to expand training opportunities, implement opportunities… Para naman yung shortage na iyon, mawala,” he said.